The Arno and Pogorzelski Preserves feature a forest canopy of primarily mature oak, ash, and American beech trees. The habitat represents an upland forest community of the Sourland Mountain region.
Click here to read the stewardship plan for more detailed ecological information.
The preserve canopy layer is primarily American beech and oak species. The understory layers are denuded by deer browse leaving only invasive species such as jetbead, Japanese honeysuckle and Japanese stiltgrass scattered throughout the preserve.
The Preserve is connected to the Sourland Mountain’s 18,000 forested acres. The forest patch size found on the Preserve and surrounding area create important nesting habitat for migratory species. No forest interior dwelling birds have been observed. The lack of a woodland shrub layer reduces the chance of nesting and successful breeding. The tree canopy suggests a once rich community of native plants, however, no significant herb or shrub layer remain at the preserve. White-tailed deer have suppressed much of the native plant community, leaving only canopy trees.
Because of the Preserve’s high Ecological Value, the stewardship efforts at the Preserve are high priority. The overarching goals at the Preserve are to protect the forest habitat. The forest offers an opportunity to restore the rich native plant communities that were once present.
Click here to download a PDF version.